91 318is Dash Gauges problem

[kappa098]

Half of my gauges (Speed and Fuel) don't light up any more. Is this a bulb issue? Fuse? What's the best way to fix this? Thanks.

[twright]

You need a new bulb. Take out the cluster (not as bad as it sounds) and replace the burned out bulb. It is screwed into the back of the cluster.

[kappa098]

Great thanks. Do you know what type of bulb I am looking for? I looked around on BAV but didn't see anything. Thanks.

-C

[scott_is]

I have the same problem sometime. Best way to fix it (at least for me)
is to hit the dash...works every time and now my friends and girlfriend are
always looking at the cluster to see if its working to hit it before I do.

Scott

[Mpoweroo1]

Any DIY to help fix non working fuel guage.

[kappa098]

I have the same problem sometime. Best way to fix it (at least for me)
is to hit the dash...works every time and now my friends and girlfriend are
always looking at the cluster to see if its working to hit it before I do.

Scott

Lightly banging on the dash fixed it. Thanks Scott_IS. With these older cars, there are just little hiccups. Thanks.

Collin

[3bvert]

for me, if I am into an older dash to replace one bulb, I replace them all, why not, you have it out, adn if one quit with age, the others are shortly behind it
I read on one of the bmw forums about replacing with led's

[kappa098]

Yea for sure, I'll as to look into LEDs. Does anyone know a DIY to remove the instrument cluster. How big of a project a it?

Collin

[91E30-318is]

I have the same issue (apparently its common with E30's). Taking the cluster out isn't the hard part, its finding the replacement bulbs.

I called a huge BMW dealer and they only stocked a couple of them, the rest they would have to order!!

On top of that they go for about $5 to $10 EACH!!

Anyone know where to get them on-line?